Ecolodges and Certified Sustainable Stays

Sustainability Is Our Way of Living

In Costa Rica, sustainability is more than just a catchphrase; it's our way of living. We believe in living in harmony with nature, protecting our resources for the next generation and extending our values with those who come here. We are proud to be a global pioneer in sustainable travel, and we offer an abundance of ecolodges and certified sustainable stays.

Many of our lodges and resorts are considered eco-friendly, which means they were built and operate in a way that minimizes environmental impact – often relying on renewable energy, integrating with the natural surroundings and supporting local communities.

To be a certified sustainable stay, a property must be vetted by Costa Rica Tourism Board’s Certificate of Sustainable Tourism (CST), which grades hotels on a scale. While you may still see classifications on a 1 to 5 scale of "leaves," there are currently two levels of CST to look for during your travel planning: BASIC and ELITE. This type of certification, which has been recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, has a stringent set of criteria that measures business management as well as impact on the environment and local culture.

Ecolodges

Northern Plains

Costa Rica’s Northern Plains includes the popular Arenal, La Fortuna and Sarapiquí regions, with endless choices of sustainable tourism certified accommodations to fit your style. Tucked between a rainforest and the base of Arenal Volcano, Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort is the only place that welcomes a natural thermal river flowing from the volcano itself. A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, the resort is deeply integrated into its natural surroundings, where wellness and luxury go hand in hand. At Arenal Springs Resort and Spa, you can look out over the volcano while relaxing in hot springs and trust in sustainable practices that include biofuel recycling, an on-site greenhouse and farm, and supporting educational and conservation programs in the region.

Ecolodges

Caribbean

Spanning the entire eastern edge of the country in the province of Limón, the Caribbean coast is renowned for its lush rainforests, pristine waterways and long stretches of beaches. With less development than the Pacific side, this unspoiled Caribbean coast allows ecolodges to flourish. Certified sustainable options include Selva Bananito Lodge in the foothills of the Talamanca Mountain Range, where off-grid cabins are made from reclaimed wood and nature is at the forefront of every activity. Namuwoki Lodge has only 17 bungalows surrounded by jungle, where Bribri Indigenous heritage meets Afro-Caribbean culture. At Almendros y Corales Hotel in the heart of the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, you'll feel like you're walking into a storybook where the jungle meets the beach.

Ecolodges

South Pacific

With laid-back surf towns, national parks and reserves, and world-class sportfishing, the South Pacific is a treasured destination. Lower commercial development keeps the shoreline free from overcrowding, while relaxed ecolodges and sustainable hotels thrive in natural settings. Set within a private rainforest reserve on the Osa Peninsula, Playa Cativo Lodge is a luxury boutique resort where the rooms are cooled by the ocean breeze, energy is produced entirely by renewable power, and farm-to-table cuisine features all local produce. Lapa Rios Hotel is tucked within Costa Rica's last remaining lowland rainforest reserve, where the sounds of wildlife lull you to sleep and a cool breeze rolls off the sea that lies 350 feet below.

Ecolodges

Central Valley

Explore volcanoes and coffee plantations, visit museums and architectural treasures, and make your way to any of the seven protected areas of the Central Valley. An ecolodge becomes your oasis after active days, whether you choose to stay in the country's capital or farther afield. Just 30 minutes from Juan Santamaría International Airport, Finca Rosa Blanca is an authentic Costa Rican coffee farm and inn – powered by solar energy and focused on reforestation and regeneration, offering an immersive stay. At Xandari Resort and Spa, colorful villas, vibrant art and unique sculptures create a sense of place. Surrounded by lush gardens and views of the Central Valley, the resort features solar-heated pools and farm-to-table terrace dining featuring ingredients grown on-site.

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Thatched huts and a raised platform at a rustic ecolodge in Costa Rica

Before you go

What to Expect at an Ecolodge

Ecolodges tend to follow the rhythms of their surroundings, and sometimes that means adjusting your expectations. Depending on where you stay, electricity may come from solar or other renewable sources and internet access may be limited or inconsistent. Because resorts are tied to nature, you're sharing space with insects and wildlife, so pack bug spray along with sunscreen and protective clothing. Among the many wonders of a sustainable resort, you can often expect meals made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients and guided walks that introduce you to the ecosystems just beyond your door. Come prepared to unplug, settle in and enjoy the experience.